The Fear of the Lord is Better Than Great Treasure
The Fear of the Lord is a profound reverence and awe towards God
“Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” (Prov. 15:16 ESV)
The “trouble” riches bring
Many believe having a lot of money would solve their problems and make them happy. But they don’t understand the problems that come along with wealth. Studies of people who suddenly come into wealth show the opposite: it causes more problems than it solves. Most who have won the lottery say it ruined their lives as well as those of their families, and they wish they never had won. The Bible has a lot to say about the trouble that comes along with it.
“But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.” (1 Tim. 6:9-10)
“Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” (Matt. 19:23-24)
This is better
“A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold.” (Prov. 22:1 ESV)
“The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.” (Prov. 10:22 NLT)
“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” (2 Cor. 9:8)
Therefore
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt. 6:19-21 emESV)
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Heb. 13:5 ESV)
“Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce;” (Prov. 3:9)